Cnidaria: Anthozoans in the Hot Seat

Abstract

Cnidarians comprise a diverse and phylogenetically basal phylum, some of which—such as scleractinian corals (Anthozoa)—are responsible for the formation and maintenance of ecosystems. Anthozoan immunology is a relatively new field, yet has great potential to inform invertebrate immunology, medicine, as well as coral reef conservation and restoration. Here we review cnidarian innate immune mechanisms in the context of invertebrate effector responses. We focus on anthozoans and discuss the blurred boundary between immune and stress responses. We conclude by high 1ighting unique aspects of coral biology and exploring the role of immunology in coral reef conservation and restoration through climate change.

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